Alumnus Gift establishes New Europe Grants for Undergraduates

Alumnus Gift establishes New Europe Grants for Undergraduates

Funds available for study in select European countries beginning Summer 2014

The Weiser Center for Europe and Eurasia (WCEE) at the University of Michigan is pleased to announce the establishment of the Kabcenell New Europe Initiative Fund in the College for Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA). The fund will be used by WCEE to support summer experiences for undergraduate students to study and conduct research in the countries that have joined or will join the European Union. By facilitating research opportunities in the New Europe, WCEE hopes to encourage students to delve into the culture, politics, history, and languages of these countries, while focusing on critical issues such as democratization, European integration, and law. WCEE anticipates such study, research, and internships will lead students on interesting career paths and establish life-long interest and connectivity to the New Europe.

The New Europe Initiative is the result of a generous gift from LSA alumnus Nicholas Kabcenell, who received a B.A. in political science with high honor and high distinction. Kabcenell works for Darby Overseas Investments in Budapest, Hungary, and has worked as both an investment banker and corporate lawyer. “Nick Kabcenell’s vision and generosity will provide fantastic opportunities for University of Michigan undergraduates to travel, work, and learn in Europe,” said Anna Grzymala-Busse, Weiser Center Director.

WCEE seeks applications from undergraduate students for grants ranging from $1,000-$5,000. Students interested in applying for New Europe grants for research, internships, or study abroad experiences are invited to visit the WCEE website for more information and to apply. The application deadline for summer 2014 grants is March 15.

The Ronald and Eileen Weiser Center for Europe and Eurasia (WCEE) supports faculty and student research, teaching, collaboration, and public engagement in studying the institutions, cultures, and histories of these regions. WCEE is housed in the University of Michigan International Institute with the Center for European Studies (CES); the Center for Russian, East European, and Eurasian Studies (CREES); and the Weiser Center for Emerging Democracies (WCED). Named in honor of Ronald and Eileen Weiser and inspired by their time in Slovakia during Ambassador Weiser’s service as U.S. ambassador from 2001-04, WCEE began operations in September 2008. For more information, visit ii.umich.edu/wcee.